For a special cat named Michael, the ASPCA’s Relocation Team made a life-changing difference. The friendly feline was living at an animal shelter in Los Angeles, one of the many cities across the country that struggle with high intake rates. Our Relocation Team moves animals from these areas—where likelihood of adoption is lower—to locations where they have a better chance at finding a home. Michael was one such animal, and last month, he became the 1,000^th cat to catch a ride with the ASPCA’s “Relo” team this year.

Michael was transported out of Los Angeles to a destination shelter in Washington State.  Just three days later, he found a home.  “I knew he’d get adopted quickly—he’s quite a talker!” recalls Relocation Team member Isha Willits. And Michael isn’t the only one: In fact, he is one of 7,061 animals that the ASPCA has transported this year alone.

Our West Coast team has moved 3,892 animals to-date in 2016, and on the East Coast, our Nancy Silverman Rescue Rides team has relocated 3,169. Combined, the team is at 64% of their goal for the year. While dogs remain the primary beneficiaries of this program, cats like Michael are proving that felines can make excellent candidates for transport as well.

And although they are already pacing to have their best year yet, our hardworking Relocation Team has no plans of slowing down. “Our team is proud to have been able to help save so many lives so far this year,” said Kristen Limbert, Senior Director of Animal Relocation for the ASPCA.  “In 2015, we were able to save nearly 7,800 animals between our LA program and the Nancy Silverman Rescue Ride.  This year, we’re aiming for 11,000 lives saved, and we won’t stop until we meet, or, more likely, exceed that number.”

Let us be the first to wish Michael—and all of the other relocated animals—bon voyage and happy trails!